Expert Response
The single parent.

Erica has had some real experience with financial difficulty and is very conscious of how important keeping in control of her finances is to her family. When Erica was in difficulty she did the right thing and sought help to get herself back on track. It's important that now she has a plan in place that she sticks to it and clears her debt.

Erica receives tax credits and is aware of the benefits she is able to claim. What is important in a situation like hers is to ensure your income and spending are aligned and that you know as much as you can how much you're likely to need. Erica has looked at her bills and has changed to a cheaper payment method for her energy which is very sensible.

The next thing that Erica could do is to look at the rest of the bills she has and check if there are other savings to be made. Regular use of public transport could be made cheaper buy buying a season ticket for regular journeys. Mobile phone tariffs could be re-negotiated if the contract is eligible. It may even pay to move to a pay as you go option.

Erica says that she is a worrier and that she always thinks about money. By reviewing your finances any gaps can be identified and solutions found for them. It's always important that if the worst was to happen that you make contact as soon as possible and explain the situation. Financial companies have a range solutions and methods to help and they know that it's not a unique situation.